Updated on Oct. 09, 2024
Whether it's for mac and cheese, a quick skillet supper or pasta salad, you want the best macaroni brands in your pantry for these recipes. Our Test Kitchen tested nine brands and found the best.
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Sure, a box of mac and cheese will do in a pinch, but there’s no beating the homemade variety. Just like any homemade dish, using good ingredients is essential for a delicious result. But when it comes to your pan of baked macaroni, are you sure you’ve got the best pasta in the cupboard to match your carefully chosen cheeses?
Now, we know you don’t have the time to test a dozen boxes of noodles, but that’s where our Test Kitchen comes in! Our pros boiled up plenty of pots of pasta just to find the best for your next macaroni and cheese dinner, pasta salad or other recipes.
The last thing we want from a box of macaroni is a mushy, lackluster noodle, so our Test Kitchen sampled nine brands to find the best. Our pros cooked each pasta to the packaged instruction for al dente noodles, then judged according to these criteria:
After boiling up pot after pot of pasta, these brands emerged as our favorites.
When we say this is the grooviest pasta, we mean it literally! Barilla elbows have that classic macaroni shape and ridges—the kind you usually see on rigatoni or cavatappi noodles. Our Test Kitchen pros loved this added bit of texture on these noodles. It made them a bit sturdier and the grooves on each noodle help hold onto more of the sauce. That means these noodles will collect more cheese in that skillet mac and cheese, more dressing in macaroni coleslaw and more chili in that Hoosier chili. That’s exactly what you want for most macaroni recipes.
Sometimes no matter what you do, pasta turns out a little too soft. But with De Cecco you don’t have to worry about too-soft pasta for a minute! This pasta had a phenomenal al dente texture and didn’t turn to mush when boiled for a minute too long. This pasta held its shape well and gave us the slightly chewy texture we crave from macaroni. This is a great option when you need pasta to hold its texture and not fall to pieces, like in a soup. This pasta fagioli soup is a must-try.
Want a daintier noodle for your chili mac? Then snag a bag of DaVinci Signature elbow macaroni. This pasta was smaller than its competitors but still had spot-on pasta flavor. This smaller shape also helps these noodles boil up a little bit faster. In just five minutes, you can have al dente elbows ready to stir into your favorite dinner.
Making big pans of macaroni and cheese? Splurge on the cheese and save on the pasta. You can get a 16-ounce box of Great Value elbows for 80 cents! A two-pound box comes in at about $1.30. And for that great price, you get a larger macaroni noodle with a nice pale yellow hue and textbook macaroni flavor.
Of course, the first thing you think of when you hear macaroni is macaroni and cheese. There are lots of ways to make this classic—all of them delicious. But macaroni can just as easily be used in a pasta salad, pasta casserole or stirred into soup or chili. But these are just the start! Check out all these recipes that start with a box of elbow macaroni.
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Pasta Fagioli Soup
My husband enjoys my version of this dish so much that he doesn’t order it at restaurants anymore. With fresh spinach, pasta and seasoned sausage, this fast-to-fix soup is a meal on its own. —Brenda Thomas, Springfield, Missouri
Skillet Mac and CheeseThis skillet mac and cheese takes a few more minutes than the boxed stuff, but we promise the final result is worth it. A thick and creamy cheese sauce is stirred together with perfectly cooked pasta, then topped with whatever you like.
Macaroni ColeslawMy friend Peggy brought this coleslaw to one of our picnics, and everyone liked it so much, we all had to have the recipe. —Sandra Matteson, Westhope, North Dakota
Chili MacThis chili mac has regularly appeared on my family menus for more than 40 years, and it's never failed to please at potlucks and bring-a-dish gatherings. Sometimes I turn it into soup by adding a can of beef broth. —Marie Posavec, Berwyn, Illinois
Cajun Mac and CheeseWhen I follow my favorite meat loaf recipe, I end up with an extra half-pound of ground beef. So I came up with this easy Cajun mac and cheese dish to use it up.—June Ellis, Erie, Illinois
Hoosier ChiliThis chili is a little sweeter than other recipes I've tasted, but I like it that way. It reminds me of the chili my mom used to make. —Jeanne Boberg, Muncie, Indiana
Chicken and Sausage StewI enjoy cooking for family and friends, but I don't want to break the bank. That's why I frequently rely on delicious one-pot meals like this.—Ernest Foster, Climax, New York
Macaroni and Cheese with ChickenPrep once and feed the family twice with this comforting, hearty macaroni and cheese with chicken. Pro tip: Double the recipe and freeze half for another time.
Macaroni Salad RecipeYou'll swear off the stuff from the deli case after making this macaroni salad recipe. It's a light, creamy version of the picnic classic.
Chili Mac CasseroleThis cheesy casserole uses several of my family's favorite ingredients, including macaroni, kidney beans, tomatoes and cheese. Just add a leafy salad for a complete meal. —Marlene Wilson, Rolla, North Dakota
Mac ‘N’ Cheese Soup"I found this recipe a few years ago and made a few changes to suit our tastes," says Nancy Daugherty of Cortland, Ohio. "We love this creamy soup. Because it starts with a package of macaroni and cheese, it's ready in a jiffy."
Sweet Macaroni SaladA sweet out-of-the-ordinary dressing makes this macaroni salad special. My aunt gave me the recipe and it has become one of my favorites. I occasionally leave out the green pepper if I know that people don't like it, and it still tastes great. —Idalee Scholz, Cocoa Beach, Florida
Jalapeno Mac and CheeseMany years ago after I had had knee surgery, a friend brought me a big casserole of mac and cheese along with the recipe. I have fiddled with the recipe over the years, most recently adding jalapenos at the request of my son. What an awesome spicy twist! —Teresa Gustafson, Elkton, Maryland
De-Lightful Tuna CasseroleThis mild, homemade tuna casserole will truly satisfy your family's craving for comfort food without all the fat! —Colleen Willey, Hamburg, New York
Vegan Macaroni SaladAll the classic flavors come through in this vegan macaroni salad, from the pickle relish to the ground mustard. The only thing you'll be missing is leftovers! —Taste Recipes Test Kitchen, Milwaukee, Wisconsin
Company Mac and CheeseThis is by far the creamiest, tastiest and most special macaroni and cheese I have ever tried. I'm not usually a fan of the homemade kind, but when a friend served this mac and cheese with cream cheese, I had to have the recipe. Since it's so little fuss and well received, it's a terrific potluck dish. —Catherine Odgen, Middlegrove, New York
Hawaiian Macaroni SaladI had to figure out how to make Hawaiian macaroni salad at home because my husband was getting tired of ordering enough for our whole family from a local restaurant. Sometimes I use green onions and serve the salad with a drizzle of teriyaki sauce and a sprinkle of sesame seeds. —Blaine Kahle, Florence, Oregon
Bacon Mac ‘N Cheese Cornbread SkilletMy cast-iron skillet is a workhorse in my kitchen. I just love it for cooking and baking. And this cast-iron mac and cheese recipe can be served as a main dish or as a smaller-portion side. —Lisa Keys, Kennett Square, Pennsylvania
Taco SkilletBeefy, cheesy, saucy and oh, so delicious, this easy taco skillet recipe comes together in under 30 minutes and is made with everyday pantry and kitchen staples.
Potluck Macaroni and CheeseYou'll always have a winner at the potluck when you bring macaroni and cheese. Here's an extra-rich, creamy version for the slow cooker. —Jennifer Blondek, Chicopee, Massachusetts
Bacon Mac and CheeseThis bacon mac and cheese features a blend of jalapeños, scallions and four different cheeses. It’s creamy, comforting and hearty, making it an absolute winner on any spread.
Minestrone with TurkeyI remember my mom making this soup; now I make it for my kids as often as I can. It's a good way to use up leftover vegetables. Sometimes I add a can of rinsed and drained kidney or garbanzo beans. —Angela Goodman, Kaneohe, Hawaii
Cashew Chicken CasseroleI especially like this dish because I can get it ready the day before I need it. It's easy to whip up with common pantry items, including macaroni, canned soup and saltine crackers. —Julie Ridlon, Solway, Minnesota
Southwestern CasseroleThis southwestern casserole is a riff on chili mac, with the added spice of green chiles and sliced jalapenos, all underneath a melted layer of Monterey Jack cheese.
Sicilian Mac & CheeseTo give our mac and cheese a Sicilian touch, we mix sausage, basil and fennel with three cheeses for an incredibly comforting casserole. —Michael Cohen, Los Angeles, California
Dinner in a BagI get a head start on this family-pleasing dinner by assembling ready-to-grab pantry kits. I measure dry macaroni and the spice mixture into separate containers, storing them in a paper bag with canned tomatoes. —Darlene Brenden, Salem, Oregon
Minestrone SoupThis minestrone soup recipe is packed with vegetables, pasta and beans in a bright tomatoey broth. It ticks all the boxes: It's hearty, incredibly comforting and a breeze to make!
Easy Macaroni SaladPass it at a potluck, unwrap it at a picnic or bust it out at a barbecue; this easy macaroni salad is perfect as a side for the summer grilling season.
Mac and Cheese BitesOur mac and cheese bites are everything you love about your favorite mac and cheese recipe in a hand-held, bite-sized appetizer.
Philly-Style Mac and CheeseMy son loves macaroni and cheese, and I’m always looking for ways to sneak in some veggies. This version is a huge hit! —Jennifer Berry, Lexington, Ohio
Skillet Beef and MacaroniI found this simple skillet recipe many years ago on a can label. I made some tweaks, and my family loved it. Because it's so easy to put together, it's a real timesaver for people with super busy schedules. —Maxine Neuhauser, Arcadia, California
Hamburger Macaroni CasseroleThe definition of hearty comfort food, this hamburger macaroni casserole recipe couldn't be easier to whip up.
Southwestern GoulashI had some extra cilantro in the fridge and didn't want to throw it away. Instead, I came up with this delightful and filling family recipe. Everyone just loved it! —Vikki Rebholz, West Chester, Ohio
Veggie Mac and CheeseTake a decadent family fave, add in a variety of vegetables, and you've got a dinner worth being excited about: veggie mac and cheese.
Easy Chili MacThis easy chili mac combines tender pasta, savory beef and a cheesy chili sauce for a comforting meal that’s ready in no time.
Pulled Pork ParfaitI tried a version of this meaty parfait at Miller Park, home of my favorite baseball team, the Brewers. I take it up a notch by layering in corn and creamy mac and cheese, so it truly is a full barbecue meal you can take on the go. —Rachel Seis, Senior Editor, Taste Recipes Magazine
Easy Slow-Cooker Mac & CheeseMy sons always say I'm the best mom in the world when I make this creamy mac-and-cheese perfection. Does it get any better than that? —Heidi Fleek, Hamburg, Pennsylvania
Creamy Macaroni SaladThis creamy macaroni salad recipe is a classic cold noodle dish with oodles of crowd appeal. It features tender macaroni and crisp, colorful veggies tossed with an ultra-creamy, sweet-and-tangy dressing.
Italian Three-Cheese MacaroniYour dream Italian vacation meets the ultimate comfort food in this Italian mac and cheese that's creamy and indulgent.
Baked Mac and CheeseWith its rich cheese sauce and crunchy crumb topping, this has to be the best baked mac and cheese recipe out there. Serve it as a comforting weeknight dinner or a holiday side dish.
Slow-Cooker MinestroneThis slow-cooker minestrone soup recipe offers all the comfort and deliciousness of a homemade soup. It's incredibly easy to make and requires very little attention once it's in the slow cooker. How's that for a great meal idea?
Mexican Mac and CheeseThis Mexican macaroni and cheese is the ultimate quick-comfort recipe that will leave the entire family satisfied.
BLT Macaroni SaladOur BLT pasta salad will get everyone's attention at your next cookout or backyard barbecue. It brings the classic combination of lettuce, tomato and especially bacon to this still-easy side dish.
Judy's Macaroni SaladAfter finding this vintage macaroni salad recipe years ago, I tweaked the flavor and bumped up the pickles. Tuck this dill pickle pasta salad inside your picnic basket. —Elizabeth Kirchgatter, Maysville, Kentucky
Bean Counter ChowderThis hearty chowder is one of our favorite vegetarian dishes. Loaded with beans, noodles and bright herbs, it's so comforting on a chilly day. —Vivian Haen, Menomonee Falls, Wisconsin
Spicy GoulashGround cumin, chili powder and a can of Mexican diced tomatoes jazz up my goulash recipe. Even the elbow macaroni is prepared in the slow cooker. —Melissa Polk, West Lafayette, Indiana 
Makeover Slow-Cooked Mac ‘n’ CheeseThis recipe is a clear example of comfort food at its finest; it's rich, hearty and extra cheesy. And because it's made in the slow cooker, it's also extremely easy. —Shelby Molina, Whitewater, Wisconsin
Makeover Creamy Macaroni and CheeseWith its creamy consistency and two different cheeses, this entree captures the essence of comfort food. But here's the kicker: it's been slimmed down for you so you can enjoy it without over indulging. —Darcie Zerniak, Ontario, New York
Cheeseburger Skillet DinnerThis skillet dinner is doubly quick. The leftovers-if there are any-can be reheated to make a second meal as tasty as the first. —Karen Grimes, Stephens City, Virginia
Quick Macaroni SaladYou can't go wrong with this time-tested winner. Here it is pared down for two.—Carma Blosser, Livermore, Colorado
Meatless Chili MacI came across this recipe in a newspaper years ago and it’s been a hit at our house ever since. It’s fast and flavorful, and it appeals to all ages. — Cindy Ragan, North Huntingdon, Pennsylvania
Tuna Noodle CasseroleWe make this tuna noodle casserole recipe with canned tuna, tender vegetables, cream of mushroom soup and egg noodles. Top it off with a crisp bread crumb topping for a warm and cozy meal-in-one.
Best Ever Mac & CheeseTo make this amazing mac, I make a sauce loaded with three different cheeses to toss with the noodles. When baked, it's gooey goodness with a crunchy topping that...don't get me started! —Beth Jacobson, Milwaukee, Wisconsin
Bacon Macaroni SaladThis pleasing pasta salad is like eating a BLT in a bowl. Filled with crispy bacon, chopped tomato, celery and green onion, the sensational salad is coated with a tangy mayonnaise and vinegar dressing. It’s a real crowd-pleaser! —Norene Wright, Manilla, Indiana
Over-the-Top Mac ‘n’ CheeseThis delicious dish is the ultimate comfort food. A blend of five cheeses, it makes a beautiful entree or a special side. I served it at our Thanksgiving dinner, and it received rave reviews. —Connie L McDowell, Greenwood, Delaware. If you're looking for more, then check out our collection of mac and cheese Thanksgiving recipes.
Broccoli Mac and CheeseIndulge in the ultimate comfort food with our broccoli mac and cheese, a delicious blend where gooey, melted cheddar meets tender broccoli, finished off with an irresistibly crunchy cracker topping.
Beef Noodle CasseroleSavory, creamy and satisfying—you'll be so happy you found this easy beef noodle casserole recipe. Packed with diced veggies, egg noodles and cheese, it's a cinch to make any time you need some hearty comfort food.
Crockpot Mac and CheeseThis Crockpot mac and cheese recipe is the perfect no-fuss recipe for busy weeknights, potlucks and holiday gatherings. It contains a few secret ingredients to make an effortless cheese sauce that's incredibly rich and creamy.
Chicken Florentine CasseroleCreamy and comforting, this chicken and spinach bake is sure to be a hit at dinnertime. The toasty bread crumb topping delivers a bit of a crunch. —Dori Jackson, Gulf Breeze, Florida
Old-Fashioned Baked Macaroni and CheeseClassic old-fashioned baked macaroni and cheese comes together with just a little patience and a lot of butter, milk and cheese. Let it bake until bubbly for the most comforting meal ever.
Stovetop Macaroni and CheeseWhen I was a girl, Mama used Texas longhorn cheese in this recipe. After it melted all over the macaroni, I loved to dig in and see how many strings of cheese would follow my spoonful. —Imogene Hutton, Brownwood, Texas
Macaroni and Cheese SoupI have worked in the food service industry for too many years to count and have made this one-of-a-kind soup at many different jobs. It's always been a big hit. —Emma Head, Sunrise Beach, Missouri
Salami & Provolone Pasta SaladEveryone needs a perfect pasta salad that’s easy to make, especially on busy nights when your family wants a dish that’s fast, light and cool. This is just the thing. —Jill Donley, Warsaw, Indiana
Makeover Creamy Mac & CheeseMacaroni and cheese just may be king of the comfort foods. This sensational version is bubbling with creamy goodness—but is lighter on calories. —April Taylor, Holcomb, Kansas
Turkey Chili with PastaSome may call it witches’ stew, but we think this hearty chili is the ultimate comfort food. It’s a perfect warmer on chilly autumn nights. —Pat Schmeling, Germantown, Wisconsin
Southern Mac and CheeseSouthern mac and cheese is an uncomplicated comfort food favorite that uses affordable ingredients for a super rich dish.
Pepperoni MacaroniAn everyday pasta bake gets jazzed up with pepperoni, sausage and olives. Because it can be assembled ahead of time and baked right before serving, it’s my handy go-to when I need something on the fly. —Marlene Mohr, Cincinnati, Ohio
Note: This blind taste test was performed by our staffers and was not part of a sponsorship. All opinions shared are our own, and have not been influenced by advertisers.
